The 10 Commandments, also known as the Decalogue, are a foundational set of ethical and moral principles central to Judaism and Christianity. Given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai, these divine directives served as a covenant with ancient Israel and continue to provide a framework for righteous living. This Q&A guide aims to clarify “what are the 10 Commandments” and their enduring significance.

What are the 10 Commandments and Where are they Found?

The 10 Commandments are a list of ten moral and religious laws that God verbally delivered to the Israelites through Moses. They are primarily recorded in two places in the Old Testament: Exodus 20:1-17 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21. These commandments were inscribed on two stone tablets, symbolizing their divine origin and permanence. They form the bedrock of the Mosaic Law, which governed the Israelite nation.

Why are the 10 Commandments Important?

The importance of the 10 Commandments cannot be overstated. They represent God’s holy character and His expectations for human behavior. They are not merely arbitrary rules but principles designed for human flourishing, both individually and communally. They reveal the nature of sin and underscore humanity’s need for a Savior. For believers today, they continue to serve as a guide for ethical conduct and a reflection of God’s unchanging moral standards.

What are the 10 Commandments (The List)?

While wording varies slightly between traditions, here is a common understanding of the 10 Commandments:

  1. You shall have no other gods before me. (Exodus 20:3) – This commandment establishes monotheism and God’s exclusive claim to worship.
  2. You shall not make for yourself a carved image. (Exodus 20:4) – Prohibits idolatry, emphasizing that God is to be worshipped spiritually, not through physical representations.
  3. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain. (Exodus 20:7) – Commands respect for God’s holy name, encompassing blasphemy, empty oaths, and irreverent speech.
  4. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. (Exodus 20:8) – Sets aside one day for rest, worship, and remembrance of God’s creative and redemptive work.
  5. Honor your father and your mother. (Exodus 20:12) – The first commandment with a promise, it establishes respect for parental authority and the family unit.
  6. You shall not murder. (Exodus 20:13) – Protects the sanctity of human life, made in God’s image. Jesus expanded on this, addressing anger and hatred in the heart (Matthew 5:21-22).
  7. You shall not commit adultery. (Exodus 20:14) – Upholds the sanctity of marriage and fidelity within that covenant. Jesus also spoke to the lustful heart (Matthew 5:27-28).
  8. You shall not steal. (Exodus 20:15) – Protects private property and condemns dishonesty.
  9. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. (Exodus 20:16) – Commands truthfulness and justice in all interactions, particularly in legal matters and reputation.
  10. You shall not covet. (Exodus 20:17) – Addresses the internal desires that lead to sin, prohibiting an envious longing for what belongs to another.

Are the 10 Commandments Still Relevant for Christians Today?

Yes, absolutely. While Christians are not saved by keeping the Law (Romans 3:20), the 10 Commandments remain relevant as a revelation of God’s moral character and a guide for how to live a life pleasing to Him. Jesus Himself affirmed the Law (Matthew 5:17) and summarized it with the two great commandments: love God and love your neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). The Commandments demonstrate what love for God and neighbor looks like in practical terms. They expose sin, leading us to Christ for salvation, and continue to inform Christian ethics and conscience. They are not a ladder to heaven, but a mirror reflecting God’s holiness and guiding our sanctification through the power of the Holy Spirit. Read more about the Old Testament Law.